A Zip on Time

Retro is still alive and kicking in fashion, and the ’80s in particular are still popping in and out as one of the influences. If you’re a fan of that era, one of the trends you should check out is the use of zippers for embellishment or closures.

Zippers being used on clothes and shoes are hardly anything new, but the twist is that zippers are no longer just for function – they are now used for fashion. Zippers that are normally hidden are now in full view, are an actual part of the garments design, or simply on the item for embellishment. I tend to prefer my zippers hidden and for function-only as opposed to being the focal point. One definite retro nod is the use of double visible zipper closures on high-waisted trousers and skirts. It’s not a favorite, but I will say that although this look has definite retro roots, today’s showy zippers have a fresh look.

What I also find interesting is that a well-inserted, invisible zipper, just like a rolled, invisible hem, is often a sign of great craftsmanship, and now the opposite is often the case. This season, a zipper just for the sake of embellishment seems to be a favorite accent of several big ticket and couture designers.

Zippers also tend to be used on casual clothes like jeans, sweaters, and skirts, but the same high-priced designers are using zippers to embellish high fashion and evening wear like cocktail dresses. Just make sure you buy a quality zipper to avoid getting runs in delicate fabrics; to check, run your finger over the zip edge and choose a zipper with quality finishing. To avoid unnecessary wear and tear on a garment, I suggest making sure the garment can move easily with you, or simply stick with pieces that have good old hidden zippers.

If you’re interested in checking this trend out, here are a few suggestions.

1. Obvious zippers in the front on dresses, sweaters, and coats.
2. Zippers on accessories like headbands and cuffs.
3. Zippers used as embellishment on the edge of gloves, belts, and handbags.
4. Zippers positioned at the ankle on pant legs and on skirt hems and slits.